Christmas in Durango extends the entire month of December, and that means our local Christmas traditions do too. Here at Legacy Properties West, we love how our little mountain town comes alive with activities all month long. This year, a lot of Durango’s traditions will look a little bit different. From the virtual Festival of Trees earlier this month to a pandemic friendly version of the Nutcracker, our favorite events will still be happening. Check below to see what some of Durango‘s holiday traditions will look like this year. 

Winter Artisans Market at DAC – Nov 20th – Dec 23rd

A signature community event, Durango Arts Center’s Winter Solstice Invitational Artisans’ Market is the perfect destination for holiday shopping. Find the perfect one-of-a-kind holiday gift in this year’s market filled with local handmade goods in every medium. Shop local, support local. 

The Polar Express™ – Nov 20th – Jan 3rd

Any tradition that requires snuggling up in pajamas with hot chocolate is one worth celebrating. If you have young children or are perhaps just young at heart, the story of a Christmas Eve journey comes alive on The Polar Express™ train ride. Enjoy hot chocolate, Santa sightings and more with a special gift from Santa as well. 

Noel Night – The Month of December

Noel Night is a holiday tradition that for many locals mark the start of the holiday season. Our downtown stores celebrate with deals, drinks and events all evening long. However, with concerns over the spread of COVID-19 Noel Night will be a month-long event. This year, your favorite local businesses will have coupons, inside the annual Noel Night insert created by The Durango Herald. These coupons can be used at your convenience. The event is also going virtual for 2020 with virtual shopping being offered at an online marketplace. 

Festival of Trees – Dec 4th – 6th

For a lot of Durango residents, it just wouldn’t be Christmas without the Festival of Trees. This year, the Festival of trees went virtual  and opened up access to everyone from the comfort of their homes. 

Cascade Canyon Winter Train – Dec 5th – Jan 3rd

Nothing says the holiday season is here like a ride on the Cascade Canyon Winter Train. Embark on a journey to yesteryear while riding a historic steam train of a 5-hour round trip train ride to Cascade Canyon. Departing from the downtown Durango Depot, this journey takes you into the Rocky Mountains with views of the San Juan National Forest. Cascade Canyon is the perfect setting for a fire-side lunch and photo opportunities.  

The Nutcracker – Dec 12 – 13th 

There are a lot of local families who consider the annual Nutcracker performance to be their official start to holiday festivities. This year due to safety concerns the traditional production was canceled. But far be it for Durango to let that stop them from this tradition! Presented this year as a drive-in performance Durango Dance has updated this classic with some local twists and made it their own for the 2020 season. 

Holiday Farmers Market – Dec 12th

There is nothing quite like the annual Holiday Farmers Market. Local farmers and vendors bring special, seasonal goods to this event, so you can prepare for your holiday gatherings. You can also browse local artisanal gifts and other handmade items. A not to be missed tradition for sure. 

Stuff the Truck Donation Drive – Dec 12th

A big part of holiday traditions in Durango centers around helping our fellow residence. This year’s Stuff the Truck Donation Drive will take place at 495 Florida Road between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. 

Happy Holidays

As you can see by the list, some of Durango’s holiday traditions will have to be left out this year due to health and safety concerns. But, here at Legacy Properties West, we see that as an opportunity to create some new ones to call our own. How will you be celebrating a socially distanced Christmas this year? Let us know in the comments! From all of us to all of you, we hope that your Holiday Season is healthy, happy and bright!